Turkey minister pledges support for Libya

Finance Minister Mehmet Simsek has reiterated Turkey's support for Libya at a ceremony in Ankara, on the third anniversary of Libya's February 17 revolution against Muammar Gaddafi Anadolu Agency reproted.

Hosted by Libya's Ambassador Abdulrezzak Mukhtar, Wednesday's event was attended by Energy Minister Taner Yildiz, President Abdullah Gul's Middle East Chief Advisor Ersat Hurmuzlu, as well as diplomats and former MPs.

"Turkey will continue to stand by the Libyan people," Simsek told the gathering. "The politically perfect relations between the two countries will soon reflect on trade and investment."

February 17 marks the beginning of the revolt that led to Gaddafi's ousting in August 2011 after capital Tripoli fell to rebel forces. Libya has since been mired in political instability.

Libya's Ambassador Mukhtar said Turkey provided a lot of support to the Libyan people, especially in the field of health services.

"Libya has developed good relations with Turkey, in regards to Turkey's high standing in the region and around the globe," Mukhtar said.